THE cost of our favourite groceries, household items, beauty products and clothes has more than doubled in a year, putting pressure on families’ budgets.
Although food inflation has slowed to 12.5 per cent, a survey from consumer champion Which? found that the cost of many products has shot up at supermarkets.
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But while you tighten your purse strings to fill up the fridge, high street shops are keeping secret vital information on their products which could save a fortune.
From surprise stickers to secret codes, money-saving influencer Casey Major-Bunce has worked out how you can spot the cheapest prices.
The 32-year-old mum of four from Portsmouth says: “Lots of us are struggling to make ends meet and there’s not always enough money in the pot to buy what we need.
“But there’s some very clever hacks out there to take the pressure off and save hundreds of pounds a year – if you know where to look.”
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She spills the beans to Kirsten Jones.
Watch out for one-off offers
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SEEN a steal but don’t have cash to spare? There’s a hack at Home Bargains to make sure you never miss out – just look for three little letters on the shelf.
Casey says: “As well as showing the cost of an item in an aisle, the shelf tag will tell you whether it’s a one-off or a regularly stocked product.
“Take a look at the bottom corner of the label. You’ll see either ‘REG’ or ‘ONE’.
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“REG means you can get your hands on the item another day as it’s always in stock. So there’s no need to scramble for cash, it’ll still be there on your next visit.
“ONE, however, means it’s a one-off and once it’s gone, it’s gone. So if you’ve got the cash, grab it while you can – especially if it’s a bargain.”
Stars mean more stock is coming
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From tuna chunks to chocolate cereal and seasonal treats, the prices of Star Buy items at Home Bargains are lower than those at competing supermarkets.
And while you might think these deals won’t be around for long, a sneaky sticker will let you know if you have time to buy.
Casey says: “I let the kids loose on the star buys like toys and snacks because they’re so much cheaper than the other shops.
“But if money’s tight, I can’t always get what they want.
“I used to worry that items would sell out and my kids would be upset, but if there’s a red star sticker on the shelf, the pressure’s off.
“The sticker is a hidden message to staff to keep the shelf clear, as more stock is coming.”
Get the app for great discounts
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THERE’S an app for almost every store on the high street – and if you don’t have B&M’s then you are missing out on massive discounts.
Casey says: “Did you know there’s a hidden barcode scanner in the app?
“Load it up in store, find the secret feature and scan the barcodes of your chosen items before heading to the till.
“You will find some products are cheaper than the shelf price. That’s because staff haven’t had time to re-label them yet.
“I’ve heard staff claim that items are stored for months before they hit the shelves – and by then, some are 10p.
“So it’s well worth scanning before you swipe your card.”
The mark of cheap make-up
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YOU might think a £1 Rimmel mascara is a proper steal – but there could be a reason for its discount price tag.
Casey says: “Most make-up has an expiry date once it’s opened and it’s not good for your skin to keep using it.
“What many don’t know is that unopened make-up can expire too – within around three years in a cool, dry place.
“The older a sealed item is, the cheaper shops like Poundland can sell it for.
“Before you stock up on lipstick and eyeshadow, go to checkcosmetic.net on your phone and type in the four-digit product code on the back of the item.
“You might find your favourite lippy was made two years ago, so leave it on the shelf, as you can’t use it for much longer.”
TK Maxx’s magic number
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THE discount fashion chain is the best high street outlet for designer brands on a budget – but only if you know what to look for on its labels.
Casey reveals: “TK Maxx has a genius number code that tells customers if they’re getting the very best deal.
“There’s lots of different digits on their labels, but only one will save you big bucks – so look closely at the price tag.
“A two at the end of the product code indicates it’s a genuine item that was sold at a higher price elsewhere.
“If you see a seven, it’s been packed away for a year and brought out again for a second chance.
“These items aren’t new, and probably not worth the price.”
How to spot TK’s own brand
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NOT every item on the shelves of TK Maxx is a bargain.
Research has found that many of the store’s items are actually own-brand products using fancy names to make you think they are better quality.
And while that doesn’t mean the item you picked out is not a steal, it’s definitely not designer.
Casey says: “Don’t worry, there’s no need to learn every duff brand in the store.
“If you’re unsure, look for the number on the price tag.
“A one means it’s an own-brand item. Make sure you feel the fabric before you buy.
“If it feels thin and poorly made, it might not be worth the price.”
Discover Dunelm discount returns
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ALTHOUGH home decor can be pretty dear, Dunelm will show you full-price items that have 50 per cent knocked off the price – but only if you know how to ask for them.
Casey notes: “People return unused, unwanted stuff to stores every day, but not every product is sold in each branch.
“So instead of shipping it back to another store, they will just reduce the price.
“Next time you’re in a Dunelm store, ask a member of staff to see their returns section.
“You’ll find everything from cushions to curtains, tables and trinkets for a fraction of the price – and it’s bang on trend.”
Cut-price Yankee candles
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EVERYONE loves a Yankee Candle, although the US firm’s prices make its sweet aromas a pipe dream for some.
The premium brand’s products typically sell for around £30.
But believe it or not, there is a way you can buy some of them for less than that.
Casey asks: “Did you know Yankee has its own discount range of candles for less than half the price?
“You can find its Home Inspiration range in Savers, Argos, Asda and even Card Factory, with large candles priced at just £12.99.
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“And the best bit is, no one can smell the difference.”
Give it a try – you know it makes scents.
